Not Around
Nova
The Tug of Love and Absence in 'Not Around'
The song 'Not Around' by Nova explores the themes of love, absence, and possessiveness. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and the complex emotions that arise when one is not physically present to witness the life of a loved one. The repeated lines 'Oh, she could be up, Oh, she could be down, But I'm not around to see her' suggest a preoccupation with the well-being of the 'baby' or partner, highlighting the helplessness that comes with distance. The artist expresses a desire to be with his lady, who he feels needs him, despite her thinking he's crazy. This indicates a tumultuous relationship where passion and emotional instability might coexist.
Nova's verses delve into the possessive nature of his feelings, as he doesn't want his partner to be with others, especially 'these bitches.' This possessiveness is juxtaposed with his acknowledgment of her loyalty (''Cause you kept it real with a nigga'). The song's narrative oscillates between wanting to be with her and the reality of not being able to, which is a source of pain and loneliness for the artist. The lyrics 'And I really wanna kick it, I will miss you, But you're mine girl, so bye' reflect a conflicted state of mind, where the artist is torn between his attachment and the need to let go.
Musically, the song likely combines elements of R&B and hip-hop, genres known for their expressive lyrics about love and relationships. Nova's style may incorporate smooth melodies and beats that complement the introspective and emotional nature of the song. 'Not Around' seems to be a personal reflection on the complexities of love, the difficulty of maintaining relationships over distance, and the struggle with possessive feelings.